Rangers boss hints two in-form players are keeping excellent Balogun from getting game time

Rangers manager Philippe Clement was on media duties on Wednesday, on the eve of his side's Europa League clash against Lyon at Ibrox Stadium and one of the topics he touched on was the partnership between Robin Pröpper and John Souttar, which has been vey efficient in recent matches. 

Pröpper and Souttar have gone the distance in each of the last four matches contested by Rangers in all competitions, starring as the Light Blues kept four consecutive clean sheets.

Clement emphasized that he wants to maintain the current defensive pairing to ensure the two centre-backs develop a flawless understanding.

While John Souttar has been on the books of Rangers for close to three years having joined the club from Heart of Midlothian in January 2022, Pröpper arrived at Ibrox from Twente two months ago.

Due to the form of Pröpper and Souttar, Nigeria international Leon Balogun has struggled for game time, with his last appearance coming in the Old Firm on September 1.

Although he was named in the gameday squad for the last four matches, the experienced central defender did not see minutes as he was a non-playing substitute. 

Clement underlined that Balogun has been excellent in training despite the challenges he's facing securing a spot in the starting lineup. 

Speaking to reporters, the Belgian football tactician said: "We also have Leon Balogun still there who know his role in the squad and he was excellent in that way and showing quality in training. 

"We have Nana (Neraysho Kasanwirjo) who can play centre-back, or Dujon (Sterling).

"The (Propper and Souttar) partnership has been good. And it's also important with new players, you create connections and a partnership so they can get to know each other.

"You can add Jefte also in that way. Half of the defence is new. Our number six is new so you need to find the balance which is better and better."

Balogun and his international teammate Cyriel Dessers were spotted training with the Rangers squad in their final workout on Wednesday, putting both in contention to be included in the gameday squad to face Twente. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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